NFL lockout: Eli Manning, Giants quarterback, optimistic there will be a season

John O'Boyle/The Star-LedgerGiants quarterback Eli Manning throws a pass during an informal training session at Hoboken High School in May.

Eli Manning is optimistic there will be a new collective bargaining agreement and an NFL season.

"I have been optimistic the whole time and it sounds like they are trying to work it out, the owners and players are trying to get everything figured out," the Giants quarterback said today in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. "I do feel we will have a season.

"Hopefully, everything gets worked out quickly so we can get to training camp on time and get guys back to work and have a full season. That's what the fans want. Obviously, they are the ones that make this possible, so hopefully we can get it done for them."

Manning, who has refused to talk to the media following recent workouts with teammates, said he has avoided discussing the labor issue since the lockout began in March because he didn't have much to say and didn't want to say anything inappropriate.

"You can only get in trouble with this type of situation," the 2008 Super Bowl MVP said. "I just wanted to get my work in with my receivers."